M.S. Applied Computer Science

Take Your Career Further with Expertise in Computer Science

Industry's need for expertise in computer science has grown beyond the mathematics-related field it was 20-30 years ago to touch nearly every area of business and society. UW-Stout's Master of Science (M.S.) in Applied Computer Science provides professionals in a wide range of occupations a pathway to deepen their knowledge, skills, and experience with computer systems that automate tasks, analyze data, and create new workflows. The M.S. Applied Computer Science will enhance your existing programming knowledge to make you more competitive for technical jobs within your field or help you transition to a new career.

Career-Defining Curriculum

The M.S. Applied Computer Science program comprises 12 credits of required advanced computer science classes along with elective coursework in computer science, mathematics, statistics or other approved disciplines to meet career goals. The program culminates with a practical, career-oriented capstone experience or applied research project.

Elective Coursework

To full their 30 credits, students will need to take 12+ credits in elective coursework, which can include courses from other fields with advisor approval. Advanced computer science courses cover topics including:

Two Paths to Degree Completion

• Capstone Option: Project-based coursework focused on designing and developing a program as part of a group. Most beneficial for working professionals or those pursuing a career change, this practice-oriented option stresses software development processes and provides practical experience with them. 
• Thesis Option: Research-oriented course of study pursuing deeper exploration of a field. The thesis path is most appropriate for students planning to pursue doctoral education. Thesis students work with a research advisor to complete a literature review, plan and conduct a study, and then provide an oral defense before a research committee.

STEM OPT Extension Advantage for International Students

Use the Request Information form to learn more about the Master's of Science degree in Applied Computer Science.

Industry-Experienced Faculty Instruction

At UW-Stout, building close relationships with our industry-experienced and academically accomplished faculty will play a key role in helping you enhance your skill set through computer science or transition to a new career field, while mastering the ability to communicate code to C-Suite leaders. Learn more about your future instructors!

Meet the Computer Science Faculty

Program Outcomes

Upon completion of the program, you will be able to: 

• Use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.
• Apply mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theory in the modeling and design of computer-based systems in a way that demonstrates comprehension of the tradeoffs involved in design choices.
• Apply design and development principles in the construction of software systems of varying complexity.
• Apply knowledge of computing appropriate to advanced work in their discipline.
• Analyze a problem and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution.
• Design, implement and evaluate a computer-based system or an empirical study.
• Communicate effectively in a range of professional settings through presentations and/or technical writing.
• Critique technical papers, reports, or studies.